Looking forward to 50, I will find myself with 10, 7 and 6 year olds living under my roof. Those are great ages to accompany a 50-something man as he explores the world.
There remains a lot to look forward to.
The key advice that I give myself, and offer you, is to approach life with the understanding that you can’t be bought.
The reality is, often, we can be bought. If that describes your current position then keep your mind open to the possibility of increasing your price until you remove it all together. That’s what I’ve been working towards for the last 20 years, or so.
I must remember the dissatisfactions have come from letting money influence my life choices. I’ve taken on assignments because I thought I should, rather than because they fit my principles. I’ve sustained a double-whammy when those assignments took me away from the people closest to me.
What are better principles to guide my thinking?
- Lean towards marriage, family, friends, local community – let’s call these Core People
- Share experiences with Core People
- Pay attention to spending that has an immediate beneficial impact – my highest utility spending is childcare that enables me to share experiences or spend time alone
- Aim to help all people – keep broadening my circle of altruism
- Set aside time for continuous simplification – automatic bill pay, empty time in my schedule, reduced admin, streamline possessions
- Don’t pay for luxury – adversity makes fond memories
Every day offers a chance to turn toward my principles.
Feel The Byrn 
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